Never Too Old to Relieve Childhood Trauma with Hypnosis

by Michelle DeStefano

People are at the most “hypnotic” state up to the age of seven. Why? Because there is no critical barrier of thought to process the information coming in. This is why, for example, that if told there is a Santa Claus, children believe it.

The trauma children suffer can manifest into adulthood issues such as fears, low self-esteem, anger issues and depression–just to name a few. From a hypnotist’s point of view, these manifestations are due to belief systems engrained in the most formative years of a child. This is what is called “programming”. Unless these beliefs are corrected, the individual will carry these beliefs into their adult lives. These beliefs become behaviors and attitudes toward people and life, in general, and most likely will end up creating blocks to a more joyful life experience.

Take, for example, a person who was bullied as a child. On one hand, they know now that they are an adult, and will be able to defend themselves against a bully or not even be a target any longer. But deep in the subconscious part of their mind, they may still carry a belief of disempowerment or general lack of trust in life itself. Everyone is different, and this subconscious belief could manifest in myriad ways, such as inability to have healthy relationships or feeling a sense of powerlessness. No matter what the outcome of this early programming, these types of issues can be resolved with hypnosis.

In hypnosis, one is able to bypass the critical barrier of thinking again, and in this state of mind, the old subconscious beliefs can be reprogrammed to more self-empowering beliefs, which will create more positive and self-reliant attitudes toward life.

Here is an example: Often times those who have been abused as children hold a subconscious belief that there is something innately wrong with them and that they are not lovable. This is what the abuse taught them. But if asked “Do you love yourself?” they may respond: “Of course I do.” But subconsciously they really don’t believe that.

In these cases, this person often develops self-destructive habits, such as becoming a workaholic, self-sacrificing for everyone else or simply living a life of little joy. These are just a few examples. But in hypnosis, no matter how old the client may be, these issues can be resolved in a manner that, on all levels, the individual knows that they are lovable, just for who they are—because now the subconscious blocks to self-love are removed.

It is a shame that some people go to their grave with unresolved childhood issues. However, people well into their 80s and beyond have reaped the benefits of hypnosis, allowing them new positive attitudes toward life, even at such an advanced age. So remember, one is never too old to change.

Michelle DeStefano, CCH, L.Ac, is double-certified in hypnosis and a member of both the National Guild of Hypnotists and the American Hypnosis Association. She is also a licensed acupuncturist. Her specialty is stress reduction and pain management. For upcoming events or free consultations, call 301-744-0200 or visit FreeYourselfHypnosis.com.